It is the policy of the Polk County Emergency Management Division to recommend in-place shelter as the primary option during a disaster. For those unable to remain in place, especially those in mobile homes, the remaining choices should be considered in order of preference. Whichever of the following options is selected, it is advised that a 72-hour survival kit be assembled and ready, a course of action be planned and that the plans be executed as soon as practicable before the disaster hits. The recommended options are:

1) In-place shelter. Plan to remain in residence during the emergency if possible.

2) Evacuate to a friend's or relative's residence. If forced to evacuate, it is less traumatic for all concerned to be sheltered with familiar people in more comfortable surroundings.

3) Evacuate the area. Other people leaving this area or areas in the projected path of the storm also will be on the road. Leave at least 48-72 hours before the storm is expected to strike.

4) Evacuate to a hotel or motel. Make arrangements early as rooms will fill quickly with other evacuees.

5) Evacuate to a public shelter. Confirm your shelter of choice is open before proceeding to that location or select another open shelter.

Special care program

The Polk County Special Care Program is designed to provide sheltering at specific locations for clients with medical or physical conditions who require assistance during an emergency. The program also provides transportation to shelters for those unable to evacuate on their own. A large number of people in the program need electrical power for their medical support equipment. They are assigned to these specially designed shelters because emergency generator power is available: Polk County Public Health Department Specialty Care Units (No. 4 on the map), Haines City Adult Day Care (No. 18) and Lakeland Adult Day Care (No. 29) are special care shelters only.